Sheree Sano Wins 5th 'Tomatoes Got Talent'

The 5th Annual "Tomatoes Got Talent" Contest celebrating the talents of women-over-40 who are currently not working pros took place on Monday, April 9 at The Triad. It was hosted by Randie Levine-Miller, who co-produced with Cheryl Benton, the founder and publisher of Thethreetomatoes.com, which sponsors the event. Jimmy Horan music directed what became a real musical happening!

Winner Sheree Sano can be found many nights, tickling the ivories at Don't Tell Mama. During the day she is a computer technician and graphic artist. Runners Up: Maggie Determann is the membership director for a non-profit; Lee Ann Brill is a paralegal and school administrator; Barbara Malley is a retired teacher and psychologist; and Janice McCune is an insurance annuity contract writer.

Other finalists who performed include: Nicole Morris, a business development consultant for beauty and wellness brands; Jeanine Robinson who works temp jobs while pursuing her singing dreams; Candace Leeds is a PR, marketing, development professional; Roe Piccoli is a psychotherapist; Kati Neiheisel is a data collector for a non-profit; Alicia Moss is a former dog daycare owner and jewelry designer; and Renee Katz is an occupational therapist.

Making a special guest appearance was concert vocalist and the four-time Tony nominated educator Corinna Sowers Adler. Also making special appearances were the contest's three previous winners -- Karen Nason, Susan Vardy, Kathy Waters who performed a show-stopping "I Am Woman".

This year's judges were playwright, lyricist and actress Gretchen Cryer ("I'm Getting My Act Together and Taking It on the Road"); producer, director and actress Jana Robbins (currently in Off-Broadway's "This One's for the Girls"); and celebrated stage, film and TV actress Laila Robins, who currently stars on ABC's new series Deception.

This year's winner, Sheree Sano will join previous winners Nason, Vardy, Waters and Fischer on Thursday June 21 at 7pm at The Triad for a special Randie Levine-Miller's "Tomato Diva Showstoppers" to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Levine-Miller has produced and hosted countless star-studded musical entertainment events -- at The Triad, the Metropolitan Room, Feinstein's, and, for many years, at the Friars Club. Celebrated for their mix of humor and high-octane singing, Levine-Miller's concerts -- which include the "Showstopper Divas" and "Divos" shows -- have been a staple of the New York charity nightclub scene for years.

Photo Credit: Maryann Lopinto